MUSCAT : The ministry has outlined penalties and regulatory measures against sham employment, warning establishments that register Omani nationals without providing them with genuine work could face a RO 500 fine and restrictions on their operations.

The ministry stressed that genuine employment must be based on actual work, with employees physically present at their establishments and performing duties that make use of their skills and qualifications.
Under the regulations, establishments have 40 days to recruit a replacement when a worker leaves, in accordance with approved procedures.

If an establishment fails to appoint a replacement within the stipulated period, it will face a block after 45 days. The ministry will then issue a notice requiring the establishment to make a new appointment.

Failure to comply within 15 days of receiving the notice will result in a financial obligation, in addition to further regulatory measures that may include a ban.

The ministry said the measures are intended to curb ghost employment, a practice in which Omani nationals are registered as employees on paper without carrying out actual work.

It emphasised that genuine employment is both a responsibility and a commitment, highlighting the importance of ensuring that recruitment translates into real job opportunities.

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